London, 9 December 2009 - The winner of this year's Germany Travel Writers Award travelled to Dessau and Berlin to explore the development of one of the most important design movements of the 20th century. William Cook receives the award for his article on the Bauhaus movement; his article "Square Roots", was published in The Independent on 28 March 2009.
Klaus Lohmann, Director of the German National Tourist Office UK & Ireland, explains the decision of the jury: "William Cook's article highlights the main principles, beginnings and further development of this most influential of art schools and design movements of the last century. His writing is not only informative and gives great advice on where to explore the many Bauhaus locations in Germany but he also highlights one of the many creative aspects of Germany and the country's innovative architecture".
This year's runner-up is Frank Barret for his article "Ich bin ein trainspotter" published in The Mail on Sunday 31 May 2009. "We have a good writer, excellent research and true enthusiasm". The jury members explain their choice, "Somebody with an excellent sense of humour and fine insight into the history and mentality of Germany and its people." The third prize has been awarded to Rick LeVert for his article "Munich on the move" (The Irish Independent, December 2008) where he discovers Munich beyond beer and the Oktoberfest.
Klaus Lohmann congratulates the winners who were awarded with their prizes during a ceremony at Trinity House in London: "It was a great pleasure and honour to read so many well-crafted articles about Germany. British travel writers helped in an incredible way to keep Germany on the map whilst highlighting our country's beauty and diversity in a fascinating and inspiring way. We would like to thank all the journalists who have written and reported on Germany throughout the year for their support and excellent work." The Media Prize for outstanding magazine production, layout and presentation has been awarded to Green Pea Publishing and their magazine "Food and Travel".
